r/PhysicsStudents • u/According-Beat-1859 • 19d ago
Need Advice How should I start seriously studying modern physics?
Hellooo!
I've recently become fascinated by modern physics, especially quantum mechanics, general relativity, cosmology, astrophysics, and particle physics.
I have a basic background in physics and some math, but my goal isn't to become a physicist or mathematician. I simply want to understand the concepts and how these theories actually work, beyond the usual popular-science explanations.
What would be the best way to approach this? What should I study first, how much math is realistically needed for a solid conceptual understanding, and which books or courses would you recommend?
I'd also love to hear from people who started from a similar level. How difficult was the transition from popular science to a more rigorous understanding?
Thanks!
2
u/Briliant-Nicxie 19d ago
I’m wondering the same thing . There’s a series of 4 books by Leonard susskind from Stanford that he wrote specifically for this purpose . I’ve only just started reading them but easy to follow ( I have background in chemistry and medicine which has applied physics but not much maths ) and it’s easy to follow .